Understanding the structure and composition of co-offending networks in Australia

Deakin criminologist Dr Chad Whelan, Flinders criminologist Dr David Bright and Prof. Carlo Morselli (University of Montreal) have received a Criminology Research Grant, from the Australian Institute of Criminology, for this research project.

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The study aims to:

1. examine co-offending networks across multiple crime types;

2. examine variations in co-offending across crime categories;

3. determine differences in the duration of co-offending networks across crime types;

4. explore cross-jurisdictional variations in co-offending networks; and

5. identify implications for law enforcement policy and practice.

It is the first analysis of co-offending in Australia and the first in the world to analyse co-offending networks using three levels of cross-sectional network analysis. The project will be completed over 2017-18.

“This project will test the hidden power of network analysis to reveal connections that we may never otherwise be able to find.”

— A/PROF CHAD WHELAN, ASSOCIATE HEAD OF SCHOOL

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Our team

Associate Professor Chad Whelan
Associate Professor David Bright (Flinders University)
Professor Carlo Morselli (University of Montreal, Canada)

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Project funding

This project is funded by the Australian Institute of Criminology, Criminology Research Grant